What Lies Behind Us and What Lies Before Us Are Tiny Matters Compared to What Lies Within Us

Rules for essay writings 1. Plan x 2 = brainstorm ideas for the topic, organise them, then make a list of techniques you’ll use. 2. Dramatic opening paragraph – it’s really important to grab the reader’s attention. Use a quote, or a series of rhetorical questions, a list, or a vivid description. Say something shocking or provocative. However you do it, make the reader feel eager to read on. 3. Variety of ideas. A good way to come up with ideas when you’re stuck is to ask yourself to apply the idea to ME / EUROPE / WORLD PAST / PRESENT / FUTURE 4. Variety of techniques. Use your techniques plan. As you use them cross them off. Some people write well naturally & don’t need this but lots of people need reminding that it’s not just what you say that matters, it’s also how you say it! 5. Flow. Connecting phrases create a flow and transition from one idea to the next. 6. Dramatic final paragraph – it’s really important to leave the reader feeling satisfied. Use a quote, or a series of rhetorical questions, a list, or a vivid description. Say something shocking or provocative. However you do it, make the reader sad that your essay is over. Some writers like to come full circle & begin & end with the same idea.
It’s hard to say exactly how long your essay should be. A brilliant debate 3 pages long will do better than a boring 7 page article. A guideline is between 3&half & 5 pages but quality is always more important than quantity! Choose your essay title based on the topic but also on the genre – which style of writing suits you best???

BASIC RULES FOR WRITING FORMAL ESSAYS
(adapted from a document written by Sharron Lawn)

1. If handwriting your essay, write on white, lined, regular-sized paper. 2. If handwriting your essay, write in blue or black ink only. 3. If handwriting your essay, write only on the front of each page—never on the back. 4. Center a title on the top line of the first page. 5.